In 1966, John Lennon was visiting a modern art exhibit. While making his way through the museum, he came to a piece that consisted of a ladder that led to a magnifying glass hanging from the ceiling. John made his way up the ladder and grabbed the glass to see the message that was written on the ceiling. There was one word – YES. In many later interviews, he credited that positive message to a turning point that led him to meet the artist, Yoko Ono, who would become his partner and true love. He had been expecting a joke, or something negative, but that simple affirmation inspired him.
TED Talks and podcasts are filled with examples of successful people who talk about the power of YES. One of my favorites is “My year of saying yes to everything” by Shonda Rhimes. She describes the transformative power of saying yes and how it helped her overcome fears, open new possibilities, make her a better parent, and a “titan” in television writing. She shares how saying yes brought color back into her life and contrary to logic, saying yes to everything didn’t overload her, it helped bring back balance and joy through focusing on the things she said yes to, starting with playing with her daughter.
For the past five years, I have selected One Word to be my focus for the year. They have been a trait that I want to develop or an act I want to perform. They have included “Inspire, Gratitude, Kindness, Patience, and Light“. This year, I have selected the word YES! My goal is not to make everyone happy, but to explore new possibilities. Saying yes can open doors, create new opportunities, and make our world bigger. I plan to record my journey of saying yes and documenting along the way the new experiences it leads to. Will you join me in being open to new ideas and new adventures? I hope you said, YES!
“Just say YES and you’ll figure it out afterwards.” – Tina Fey
“When you say YES, the universe helps you.” – Dan Brule
“The big question is whether you are going to be able to say a hearty YES to your adventure.” – Joseph Campbell
“YES officer, I saw the speed limit sign, I just didn’t see you.”
- Monday, January 6: Celebrate Monday Assembly (Confidence) 9:05 AM
- Tuesday, January 7: Achievement Team (Tanner) 8:15 AM
- Thursday, January 9: PLC Session 7:50-8:50 AM, Lock Down Drill 9:30 AM, Jon & Julie at CO for Secretary Interviews 12:00-4:00 PM
- Friday, January 10: School Improvement Committee 8:15 AM
BIG DATES
- Friday, January 17: F&P due in Data Profile for all K/1 students and those below grade level 2-4.
- Monday, January 20: No School for Teachers (MLK day)
- Wednesday, January 22: Data Dives (Rotating Subs)
The Spark of Learning 